Intake and exhaust vents are critical for proper attic ventilation, even when you have an exposed fastener metal roof. Intake vents are usually placed near the eaves or soffits to allow fresh air to enter, while exhaust vents are placed near the ridge or higher points to let hot, moist air escape. Sizing these vents correctly depends on the total square footage of your attic space. A general rule is to provide 1 square foot of ventilation (combined intake and exhaust) per 150 square feet of attic floor space. For metal roofs with exposed fasteners, it's important to ensure the intake vents are installed in locations where screws and seams won't interfere with airflow or cause leaks. Since the metal panels themselves don't typically have vent functions, you want to mainly focus on the soffit intake and ridge exhaust vents.
A simple DIY check is to inspect your attic during daylight with the roof and soffits illuminated; you can see airflow patterns if the setup is working. Also, feel for moving air near soffit intakes to confirm intake vent functionality. However, never climb on a metal roof yourself as it's slippery and nails or screws can cause serious damage or leaks if not handled correctly. If you notice excessive heat in the attic, moisture buildup, or visible signs of rust around fasteners, it’s time to call a roofer with ventilation experience. When reaching out, ask your contractor: “Can you verify the net free ventilation area for both intake and exhaust based on my attic size?” and “How will you ensure proper flashing and sealing around exposed fastener heads to maintain the metal roof’s warranty?” These questions help ensure your ventilation is efficient and your roof stays protected.